In Episode 5, I talked about an incredible story where a couple, Jennifer and Donald Lawson, saw a male who followed a young girl home from the bus stop. Something about the male caught Jennifer’s attention. She insisted Donald follow him as he entered the residential area. They thwarted Tanner Hoover’s attempt to kidnap an eight year old girl, when he sprung from his vehicle. Hoover was posed to bear hug her into his car, when he saw the Lawsons. The Lawsons did not stop there. They followed the child and confirmed she was okay before they turned around to follow Hoover.
They call 911, who starts the call before they are transfered to me. They help me understand what happened while giving me updates, as best they can, driving at a high rate of speed to keep up with Hoover. They provided a vehicle plate and description which enabled surrounding area officers and SPD officers to locate Hoover. He eventually pulled over, before officers could approach him, he shot himself.
On October 10, 2022, Chief Andrew Shearer of Springfield PD bestowed letters of commendation to the Lawson's at a ceremony on Monday, October 10, at the Springfield Justice Center.
I had the honor to talk to them at the award presentation :), Jennfier and Donald were delightful. I was truly grateful to have a full circle moment to meet the guardian angels in person. There were a few damp eyes as we all felt the emotions of what could have been and the miracle that they stopped Tanner Hoover from grabbing the child.
We will share more in an upcoming episode. We have the audio from Chief Shearer’s commendation and a few clips from the Lawsons.
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